FMD job losses are invariable - expert

The Food and Allied Workers Union plans to petition Beefcor management over proposed retrenchments affecting 393 workers at its Okahandja operation. Meanwhile, Savanna Beef has reportedly sent 240 employees home while negotiating with financiers to keep the business afloat. The crisis follows the suspension of overseas beef exports after foot-and-mouth disease was confirmed in the //Kharas Region on 23 September. Regaining disease-free status could take up to two years. Former Namibian Employers Federation Secretary General Tim Parkhouse has been contacted for comment.